University of Texas Regents' Outstanding Teaching Award (ROTA)


University of Texas Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Awards (ROTA) are a symbol of the importance placed on the provision of teaching and learning of the highest order. The awards are offered in recognition of those who serve our students in an exemplary manner and as an incentive for others who aspire to such service. $25,000 awarded. ROTA is an award that requires institutional endorsement before candidates can be advanced for consideration by the organization. The typical timeline for submission is February through May.

Use this as a reference guide. For the latest details, check the annual Call for Awards. Information may change.

Requirements

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  • 25 Pages max
    • TOC with hyperlinks
    • Personal information
    • ROTA form
  • Mandatory Section (≤ 20 pgs.)
    • Curriculum Vitae
    • Teaching Philosophy
    • Institutional Endorsement
    • Dissemination Plan for teaching innovations
    • Letters of support from department chair/dean, peers, and former students.
  • Supplemental Section (optional, ≤ 5 pages):
    • Student evaluations (comments/numerical)
    • Evidence of teaching impact and innovation
    • Multimedia: Videos (3-5 minutes total), personal websites, LinkedIn profiles, etc.

Criteria and Selection

Recognizes exceptional educators who demonstrate a commitment to teaching excellence and innovation and enhancing the student learning experience. Indicators of excellence may include:

  • Developing innovative, student-focused teaching methods.
  • Actively engaging learners through effective strategies.
  • Creating opportunities for experiential learning.
  • Effectively integrating technology in teaching.
  • Adapting methods to improve teaching outcomes.
  • Demonstrating a commitment to ongoing teaching improvement.
  • Leading and influencing colleagues in teaching excellence.

Selection Criteria

  • Demonstrated commitment to teaching excellence through effectiveness, innovation, and creativity.
  • Evidence of enhancing student learning through engaging learners, experiential learning, effective use of technology, and adapting teaching methods.
  • Successful dissemination of methodologies and innovations to other faculty members within their university and across UT System institutions.
  • Nomination packet includes all mandatory information and is easy to navigate.

UTMB Review and Advancement Process

*UTMB may choose not to advance.

Maximum of 2 nominees per institution.

Up to 15 awards are given across academic and health institutions. 

General Tips!

  • Discuss your intention to apply with your Chair and Supervisor
  • Similar to APT, demonstrating impact and outcomes are important indicators of educational excellence. Think quantity AND quality indicators.
  • Contact the Academy of Master Teachers (AMT) if you would like consultation services as several members are honorees.
  • Read instructions carefully to include necessary information (i.e., typically you cannot include an attached CV or an entire CV)